The Viceroy Rivera Maya added a unique feature to their hotel program this year: an authentic shaman.

Jose Colli is the newly appointed gatekeeper of the resort’s Mayan-centered guest experience,and he comes from a long family line of Mayan shamans from a nearby Yucatan village.

In addition to blessing arriving guests and conducting wedding and vow-renewal ceremonies, he grows healing medicinal herbs and plants used at both the Viceroy spa and restaurant. Some of which include zacate limón (lemongrass), albahaca (basil), menta (peppermint), and cebollin (chives).

Jose not only provides guests the opportunity to take part in an authentic Mayan experience, but he also provides them with insight into spiritual and physical healing traditions passed down through centuries.

Although the herbs and plants hold spiritually healing qualities, they also are an essential component of many of the dishes found at the Viceroy’s restaurant run by acclaimed Chef Jorge Ildefonso. The nutritional and particularly popular Chaya is just one of the plants that is incorporated into several dishes, including the savory and healthy Chaya Risotto Recipe. Today, you have the opportunity to take part in a delicious, healing and entirely authentic Mayan-influenced experience!

Thinking of traveling and want to know how it affects your well-being? Check this out: http://www.well-beingsecrets.com/health-benefits-of-traveling/

To learn more about the Shaman Experience: www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/en/rivieramaya